Where to stay and what to do in Windhoek

Tours and safaris to Windhoek

Start your adventure in Namibia from the capital city, and the largest city, of this West African country, Windhoek. Thrilling tours and safaris with Voyage2Africa to Namibia’s best-loved regions usually make Windhoek the focal point of their itineraries. We show you where to stay and what to do in this beautiful city and its easy access to both international and regional travel routes. 

Choose your Namibian hotel accommodation to suit your budget safari, mid-range tour or luxury self-drive vacation in Africa. For the best tours and luxury safaris to Namibia, contact the travel experts and book your once-in-a-lifetime holiday with us!

Windhoek is located in central Namibia in the Khomas Highland plateau area, almost exactly at the country’s geographical centre. Windhoek is a vibey cosmopolitan town reflecting diverse cultures and their histories – meet Herero, Owambo, Damara, Kavango, Buster, Nama, San, German, British and Afrikaans people as you explore the well-known landmarks, restaurants and museums. 

Did you know?

The name Windhoek means windy corner (wind hoek) and the city grew up around a permanent spring where indigenous pastoral people gathered to water their animals. It’s surrounded by rocky mountainous areas. 

Highlights

  • Christuskirche stands regally on a traffic island, lord of the city, a renowned landmark that looks like the Hansel and Gretel house made of cake – but in fact was built from local sandstone in 1907 in vastly different neo-Gothic and art nouveau styles. 
  • The rock art display at the National Museum of Namibia is a great introduction to your tour later to the mind blowing Twyfelfontein site in Damaraland
  • The incredible elephant column sculpture in Zoo Park reminds visitors of a stone age elephant hunt right here millions of years ago, now a beautiful shady picnic park
  • Drive 18km west of Windhoek to the magical birding spot, Daan Viljoen Game Park, where some 200 species include the rare green-backed heron and pin-tailed whydah.

From Windhoek get ready to explore the shimmering sands of the Namib Desert, in the 50 000 square km Namib Naukluft National Park, one of the largest conservation areas in the world. Or head north to Etosha National Park a wonderland for wildlife that congregates around the incredible salt pan – so huge it can be seen from space! 

Swakopmund lies to the west, Namibia’s second biggest town and most popular summer capital on the edge of the cold Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by the huge dunes of the Namib Desert. Join other visitors flocking to the annual German Bierfest and fall in love with the German architecture and food.

Where to Stay and What to See in Windhoek

Accommodation in Windhoek ranges from excellent hotels, lodges and guest houses to rustic self-catering units, B&Bs and more budget venues. As a first-time visitor, you may want to choose a central hotel within walking distance of all the sights and tourist attractions. We recommend the Olive Exclusive, boasting 7 eccentric suites that reflect different regions in Namibia, with roomy patios and private plunge pools –but there are many more hotels and lodges to choose from.

There is plenty to do in Windhoek and it’s worth staying a day or two if you have the time. Go and visit the nearby Eros Mountains, Daan Viljoen Game Park, Katatura, Khomasda and the Okahandja Craft Market. City tours are easily arranged from your guest house in Windhoek or from the tourist information centre. A must-see is the National Museum of Namibia and there’s also the Trans Namib Railway Museum and the Owela Museum which explains the cultures and peoples of Namibia in great detail.

Family Holidays in Windhoek

Take your family on a fascinating holiday to the largest city in Namibia with plenty to do while you rest between tours and safaris. It oozes history, good beer, excellent cosmopolitan foods and incredible neogothic architecture. A few days in Windhoek are well-spent, educational and active too – quite a thrill for families and friends who want to head north to the Namibian West Coast!   

Choose modern city hotels or cosy guest houses with large gardens. Kids will feel in awe of this urban environment and want to run free in some of the beautiful parks and public spaces so take them on all the offered outings. We recommend the three castles, now converted into restaurants and accommodations – Heinitzburg, Schwerinsburg and Sanderburg.

Book tours to well-known landmarks and outdoor activities outside of Windhoek or take a drive on your own and simply picnic somewhere beautiful. Windhoek is the gateway to the Namib Desert and the Naukluft Mountains. Most Windhoek hotels, lodges and villas feature swimming pools so treat your family to this life-changing stop-over retreat before you head off again on safari to see more of dramatic Namibia.  

The Best Of The Best Safaris to Windhoek

Plan a Namibia tour and safari with Voyage2Africa, the African travel experts, and enjoy signature experiences to premier wildlife destinations south of the equator. We bring you thrilling adventures in the infinite spaces of the Namib Desert and the Naukluft Mountains, then resting time in the scenic capital city of Windhoek. Choose a modern hotel with luxury facilities and get ready to explore more of Namibia soon. We offer you some of the best accommodation and special packages in Windhoek to expand your holiday in true African style. 

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